Your Way In: Turning Experience into a Social Work Career

For many people, becoming a social worker can feel out of reach.

“I wanted to be a social worker for years, but every route required a degree I didn’t have or unpaid placements I couldn’t afford.”

After more than nine years working in children’s services, this apprentice knew social work was the right next step. The Children’s Social Work apprenticeship removed the barriers that had held them back, allowing them to earn while they learn and turn years of experience into a recognised qualification.

“The fact that my experience and on the job learning was enough for someone to believe in me was life changing.”

Throughout the apprenticeship, support came from university lecturers, academic mentors, workplace managers and practice educators, creating a strong foundation to learn, grow and succeed.

“The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that we don’t need to know everything. Social work is about learning every day.”

Today, the impact of the role is clear.

“I show up for children and families on their best days and their hardest days. That consistency really matters.”

Becoming the first woman in their family to gain a degree is a proud milestone, but the biggest change has been personal and professional growth. Greater empathy, understanding and confidence now shape the way they work and see the world.

For anyone unsure about taking the first step, the advice is simple.

“It’s okay to ask for help, and it’s okay not to have all the answers. There is so much support around you.”

There is no single route into social work.
With the Eastern Region, there is Your Way In.